Research Assistant - Scholarly Fashion Studies Book Proposal Assistant

The New School; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

The New School in New York, NY seeks a Research Assistant to support the development of a scholarly fashion studies book proposal focused on swimwear. You will help synthesize literature, organize theoretical frameworks, and prepare materials for publisher submissions.

Hybrid/Remote work is allowed with occasional on-campus presence. The role carries an hourly rate of $31.37 and requires strong research, writing, and organizational skills to meet project timelines.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Fashion Studies, Art History, Cultural Studies, Sociology, the Humanities, or closely related field.
• Strong written communication, organizational, analytical, and research skills.
• Familiarity with literature reviews, annotated bibliographies, and scholarly research practices.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet project timelines.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to organize research materials and project documentation.

Responsibilities

• Review existing annotated bibliographies and research notes to identify, organize, and synthesize key themes relevant to the book project.
• Support refinement of the book’s focus and thematic structure through literature mapping and comparative analysis of existing scholarship.
• Assist with evaluating potential publication formats, including a single-author monograph and edited volume, and support development of corresponding chapter structures.
• Support preparation of the book proposal by organizing theoretical frameworks, research findings, chapter concepts, and related project materials.
• Research publisher requirements and proposal guidelines, including those of Intellect Publishing and other appropriate academic presses.
• Format and organize proposal materials in accordance with publisher submission requirements.
• Depending on the final publication strategy, assist with research and organizational support for a potential special issue or edited-volume pathway.
• Identify and catalogue potential multidisciplinary scholars and contributors whose work addresses relevant gaps in swimwear scholarship.
• Maintain bibliographies, research files, project documentation, and milestone tracking to support the timely development of the project.

Skills

Written communication

Organizational skills

Analytical skills

Research skills

Literature reviews

Education

Graduate student (Master’s or Ph.D.)

Job description

The Research Assistant will support the research development and preparation of a scholarly fashion studies book proposal focused on swimwear. Building on an established theoretical framework examining swimwear through the intersections of diversity, social justice, and environmental impact, the position will assist the Lead Faculty Researcher in advancing the project from existing research and annotated bibliographies toward thematic synthesis, structural development, and manuscript planning.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Review existing annotated bibliographies and research notes to identify, organize, and synthesize key themes relevant to the book project.
• Support refinement of the book’s focus and thematic structure through literature mapping and comparative analysis of existing scholarship.
• Assist with evaluating potential publication formats, including a single-author monograph and edited volume, and support development of corresponding chapter structures.
• Support preparation of the book proposal by organizing theoretical frameworks, research findings, chapter concepts, and related project materials.
• Research publisher requirements and proposal guidelines, including those of Intellect Publishing and other appropriate academic presses.
• Format and organize proposal materials in accordance with publisher submission requirements.
• Depending on the final publication strategy, assist with research and organizational support for a potential special issue or edited-volume pathway.
• Identify and catalogue potential multidisciplinary scholars and contributors whose work addresses relevant gaps in swimwear scholarship.
• Maintain bibliographies, research files, project documentation, and milestone tracking to support the timely development of the project.

Qualifications – Education, Experience, and Skills

• Currently enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Fashion Studies, Art History, Cultural Studies, Sociology, the Humanities, or a closely related field.
• Strong written communication, organizational, analytical, and research skills.
• Familiarity with literature reviews, annotated bibliographies, and scholarly research practices.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet agreed-upon project timelines.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to organize research materials and project documentation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Research interest or prior experience in critical fashion studies, sustainability, body politics, social justice, or related interdisciplinary areas.
• Familiarity with academic publishing processes, book proposals, or editorial workflows.

WORK MODE

Hybrid/Remote - Employees hired for this position primarily work remotely with the occasional on-campus presence required with advanced notice. Employees in this role will also be expected to use their best judgment to be on campus when necessary in order to best fulfill the responsibilities of their job descriptions.

Hourly Rate: $31.37/hour

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, creed, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, marital or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity or expression, age, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. The New School recognizes and values the benefits of a diverse workforce.

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between SENS-UAW, Local 7902 and the University.

Since our founding in 1919, The New School has redrawn and redefined the boundaries of intellectual and creative thought as a preeminent academic center. At our university, students have the academic freedom to shape their unique, individual paths for a complex and rapidly changing world. As a New School employee, you will be a part of the university’s mission to prepare and inspire students to bring about positive change in the world.